New boy Baird wants second shot at Premier League and believes Clarets have what it takes

CHRIS Baird says he wants “another shot” at the Premier League, and hasn’t ruled out doing that with Burnley.

The defender made his debut in a 3-0 win at Charlton Athletic two days after signing to restore the Clarets’ 10-point cushion in second place after Derby County’s lunch-time win.

Baird was reluctant to talk up his new club’s promotion prospects, saying: “I don’t want to jinx things and say they’re already there.

“We’re just taking each game as it comes, we’ll see.”

Burnley boosted their chances with nine games to go, through Ashley Barnes’ first goal for the club, Sam Vokes’ 20th from the spot and Michael Kightly’s deflected effort in stoppage time – and closed the gap on leaders Leicester City after they were held to a 1-1 draw at Blackburn Rovers.

But Baird insists their focus does not stretch beyond taking their form into tomorrow night’s home game with Doncaster Rovers.

“It’s just up to us at the end of the day, we’re going to go into the next game, worry about us, and get the three points hopefully,” said the Northern Ireland international, who aspires to continue his career in the top flight after playing more than 100 Premier League games for Fulham.

“I want another shot at it that’s for sure, whether it’s here or somewhere else well see what happens,” added the 32-year-old, who came in for the injured Kieran Trippier at right back after signing until the end of the season as a free agent.

Baird spent part of his early career alongside Clarets boss Sean Dyche at Watford, and has been impressed by the set-up at his new club.

“You can see the work-rate and the confidence in the players as well. Confidence is massive in the game, and you can just see everyone is working for each other, doing what they have to do, putting in really good performances and getting the right results,” he added.

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“They keep their shape well, there’s always a threat up front. I know Ingsy’s injured at the minute but hopefully he can get back soon and bang a few more goals in, but there are goals everywhere in the team and it was a great win for us.

“I know it’s not a big squad but everyone works so hard for each other and they’re getting the results.”

He admitted a poor pitch made it difficult for their run to continue at Charlton.

“It was a hard game but we did what we had to do.

“We knew the pitch wasn’t going to be the best so it was a case of sitting in there, be steady, keep it simple,” said Baird, who had been training with Reading since the end of his short-term deal in January.

“It’s my first game for a long while and I managed to get 90 minutes under my belt.